forebear

UK: ˈfɔːbeə | US: ˈfɔːrber

Definition

  1. n. an ancestor or predecessor (typically used in plural form: "forebears")

Structure
fore <before>bear <carry>
Etymology

The word "forebear" combines "fore" (Old English fore, meaning "before") and "bear" (Old English beran, meaning "to carry" or "to bring forth"). Historically, it metaphorically refers to those who "carry" or precede the current generation. The term evolved in Middle English to denote ancestors, emphasizing lineage and heritage.

Examples

  1. My forebears immigrated to this country in the 19th century.

  2. We owe much of our cultural traditions to our forebears.

  3. His forebears were farmers who worked the same land for generations.

  4. She researched her forebears to trace her family’s history.

  5. Modern scientists stand on the shoulders of their intellectual forebears.